What are Lab Grown Diamonds?
Also known as synthetic or cultured diamonds, lab-grown diamonds are crafted in a state-of-the-art laboratory rather than being mined from the Earth’s mantle.
These gemstones share the same chemical makeup, optical brilliance, and physical beauty as natural diamonds – they are identical in DNA, appearance, and intrinsic qualities. Cultured diamonds represent a refined evolution, offering the true essence of a diamond, meticulously optimized for perfection.
OUR LAB DIAMOND RINGSAre Lab-Grown Diamonds Real?
Lab-grown diamonds are indeed genuine diamonds. They possess the same chemical composition, atomic structure, mesmerizing optical qualities, and intrinsic charm as natural diamonds. The difference lies in their origin: instead of forming deep within the Earth, lab-grown diamonds are created through a meticulously controlled, accelerated process in state-of-the-art laboratories.
The two primary methods for producing them are High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD). These diamonds are real, born from the synergy of innovation and science rather than traditional mining.
LAB-DIAMONDS CERTIFICATION
Lab Diamonds Benefits
REAL DIAMONDS
Sharing the same chemical composition, optical brilliance, and physical beauty as their earth-mined counterparts, lab-grown diamonds elevate the concept of luxury to a new level.
SAME VALUE, LOWER COST
Lab diamonds are 30-50% more affordable than mined diamonds. This is because they are produced through efficient manufacturing processes that avoid the costly and time-consuming supply chains and mining.
ENVIROMENTALLY CONSCIOUS
Embrace the guilt-free luxury of cultured diamonds – a thoughtful choice that frees you from worries about environmental and humanitarian issues.
Shanore's lab grown engagement rings
Discover our newest Engagement Rings Collection: a perfect blend of classic designs and Celtic inspiration, capturing timeless elegance and tradition.
SENTIMENTAL & ROMANTIC
By incorporating traditional designs such as the Trinity Knot, our jewelry beautifully expresses deep sentiment and enduring values, adding extra meaning and romance to each ring.
MODERN & ELEGANT
Our modern approach to traditional Celtic designs offers a contemporary twist, seamlessly blending innovation and elegance with Ireland’s rich heritage and traditions.
SUBTLE & DELICATE
Though our traditional Irish symbols are still featured, they now play a more understated role, bringing an added touch of grace and finesse to each piece.
The 4 C's of a Diamond
The 4C’s – cut, color, clarity, and carat – stand as the pillars in determining a diamond’s value, meticulously assessed by renowned diamond grading labs. In the world of diamonds, understanding these facets empowers you to make a choice that resonates with your unique style.
CUT
Refers to how well a diamond has been cut, including the proportions, symmetry, and polish. A well-cut diamond reflects light internally and displays a brilliant sparkle.
COLOR
Diamonds come in various colors, with the most valuable ones being colorless. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) grades diamond color on a scale from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown). The less color a diamond has, the more valuable it is.
CLARITY
Clarity assesses the presence of internal flaws (inclusions) and external blemishes in a diamond. The clarity grade ranges from Flawless (with no visible imperfections under 10x magnification) to Included (where imperfections can be seen with the naked eye). Diamonds with fewer flaws are generally more valuable.
CARAT
Carat measures the weight of a diamond, with one carat equal to 0.2 grams. Larger diamonds are rarer and typically more valuable, though the quality of the other Cs—cut, color, and clarity—also plays a crucial role in determining a diamond’s overall value.
Certified Lab-Grown Diamonds
With each ShanOre Diamond, you gain more than just a gem; you receive a guarantee of quality and authenticity. Every diamond comes with an IGI certification, providing undeniable proof and assurance of your exquisite purchase.
The International Gemological Institute IGI
IGI’s detailed diamond grading follows a strict process that includes comprehensive intake, meticulous analysis, and precise reporting, all crafted to maintain the highest standards of security, confidentiality, accuracy, and consistency.
Anonymous Unique Report Number
IGI ensures anonymous diamond grading with unique identification numbers that protect owner privacy, while also guaranteeing impartiality through the random assignment of gemologists.
Compulsory Screening
IGI uses state-of-the-art screening and detection technologies on every diamond, gemstone, and piece of jewelry to accurately identify whether they are natural, lab-grown, or simulated.
Other lab-created gemstones
Discover our breathtaking lab-grown white and blue sapphires. These gems are indistinguishable from the finest earth-mined stones but cost 90% less and contribute to supporting both people and the planet.
Lab-grown Emeralds
Lab-grown emeralds, also known as synthetic or cultured emeralds, replicate the composition and characteristics of their mined counterparts. Produced in controlled lab environments using advanced techniques such as hydrothermal synthesis or flux growth, they provide a sustainable and ethical alternative, avoiding the environmental impacts of mining.
Featuring the same vibrant green hue and clarity as natural emeralds, these lab-grown gemstones are a favored choice for eco-conscious jewelry, including rings, earrings, and necklaces. Additionally, lab-grown emeralds often have fewer inclusions and are more affordable, making them an attractive option for both jewelers and consumers.
FIND A STORE
Lab-Grown Gemstones
Similar to cultured diamonds, lab-grown gemstones—often referred to as synthetic or cultured—are created in controlled laboratory environments that replicate natural geological processes. These gemstones match natural counterparts in chemical composition, physical properties, and optical characteristics.
Using advanced techniques such as hydrothermal synthesis, flame fusion, or the Czochralski process, they provide an ethical and sustainable alternative to mined gemstones. Available in a wide variety of types, including sapphires, emeralds, rubies, and diamonds, lab-grown gemstones are a popular choice for jewelry pieces like rings, earrings, and necklaces.
FIND A STORELab grown diamonds faq's
Demystifying the art and science behind the intricacies of lab grown diamonds.
What are the different types of lab-grown diamonds?
Lab-grown diamonds can be grown in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they can be treated with different colors and clarities. The most common types of lab-grown diamonds are:
- White lab-grown diamonds: These diamonds are colorless and have the highest transparency.
- Colored lab-grown diamonds: These diamonds can be grown in a variety of colors, including yellow, pink, blue, and black.
- Clarity enhanced lab-grown diamonds: These diamonds have been treated to improve their clarity.
How are the different methods for growing lab-grown diamonds?
There are two main methods for growing lab-grown diamonds:
High-pressure high-temperature (HPHT) method:This method mimics the conditions in which natural diamonds form in the earth. A small seed diamond is placed in a chamber with carbon and exposed to high temperatures and pressures. Over time, a new diamond will form around the seed diamond.
Chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method: This method involves placing a diamond seed in a chamber with a carbon-rich gas. The gas mixture is heated to a high temperature, which causes the gas to break down, and carbon atoms are deposited onto the seed, layer by layer, to create a diamond.
How do lab-grown diamonds compare to natural diamonds?
Physical and chemical properties: Lab-grown diamonds and natural diamonds have the same chemical composition, optical properties, and physical characteristics. They are both made of pure carbon and have a hardness of 10 on the Mohs scale, making them the hardest natural substance on Earth. The main distinction is that lab-grown diamonds may have fewer impurities, making them potentially more visually flawless.
Durability: Lab-grown diamonds and natural diamonds are both extremely durable. Both can withstand scratching, cutting, and other forms of wear and tear. They will not tarnish or discolor over time. They have similar hardness, which makes them highly resistant to damage.
Value: Lab-grown diamonds are generally more affordable than natural diamonds, while maintaining the same optical and physical characteristics. is lower while maintaining the same optical and physical characteristics.
How do lab-grown diamonds contribute to sustainability and reduce environmental impact?
Lab-grown diamonds are crafted within controlled environments, conserving substantial land and water resources compared to conventional diamond mining. This environmentally conscious approach greatly minimizes the ecological footprint of the diamond industry.
Are lab-grown diamonds more affordable than natural diamonds?
Yes, lab-grown diamonds are generally more affordable than natural diamonds of comparable quality. This affordability allows you to acquire larger or more intricately designed pieces without compromising on quality or beauty.
How do lab-grown diamonds compare to natural diamonds in terms of carbon footprint and energy efficiency?
Lab-grown diamonds are often considered more environmentally friendly due to their reduced carbon footprint. While natural diamonds have their own unique appeal, it’s worth noting that lab-grown diamonds are created using efficient and advanced technology. They are sometimes referred to as “organic” diamonds to emphasize their eco-friendly nature, without diminishing the allure of natural diamonds.
Are lab-grown diamonds ethically sourced?
Lab-grown diamonds are ethically sourced since they do not involve the social and ethical concerns associated with some natural diamond mining practices. They are conflict-free and offer peace of mind to those who prioritize ethical considerations in their jewelry choices.
Do lab diamonds undergo through the Kimberley Process?
Lab-grown diamonds do not undergo the Kimberley Process because they are not mined. They are acknowledged as one of the newest ethical gem choices available.
How Are Lab-Created Diamonds Certified and Evaluated?
Similar to natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds have the option of undergoing certification. They are sent to a specialized gem institute where a team of gemologists independently evaluates them. These individual grades are then combined and analyzed to determine the final grade of the lab-created diamond.
It’s important to note that not all lab-grown diamonds undergo this grading process. Typically, smaller diamonds are not graded, and some jewelers choose not to certify their lab-created diamonds. At ShanOre/Ocean, we provide grading for many of our lab-grown diamonds to ensure transparency in the purchasing process
How to choose a lab-grown diamond?
When choosing a lab-grown diamond, focus on the 4 Cs: color, clarity, cut, and carat, along with the fifth C, cost. These criteria apply to both mined and lab-created stones.
What are some tips for shopping for lab-grown diamonds?
Are you shopping for lab-grown diamonds? Start by ensuring authenticity through reputable grading reports. Explore unique and understand the 4 C’s for quality assessment. You can always personalize the ring to make it unique and always demand certified reports for transparency. Avoid common mistakes, like skipping certification, and take your time to make an informed and sustainable choice for a meaningful piece. For a more detailed understanding, read our “Tips for Shopping Lab-Grown Diamonds”.
Lab-grown diamonds certification: How does it work? Why is it important?
Lab-grown diamond certification, offered by organizations like the International Gemmological Institute (IGI), is essential for ensuring the authenticity and quality of these sustainable gems. Certification provides consumers with confidence in their purchases, supports ethical and sustainable sourcing, aids in comparison and selection, and offers value assurance, making it a cornerstone of trust and transparency in the industry.
